KENNEWICK, Wash. – A 23-year-old man was arrested after attempting to commandeer a Kennewick School District bus on North Volland Street.
Kennewick Police Department responded to the incident at about 8:08 a.m. The suspect boarded the bus as the driver stopped to pick up the first student and took a seat behind the driver.
The bus driver, frightened, exited the bus immediately. The man then moved to the driver’s seat, trying to maneuver the steering wheel and gesturing for the driver, a parent, and a student to re-enter, which they wisely ignored.
The parent requested a nearby vehicle to call 911, expressing fear of potential assault. The man followed the group for several minutes before changing direction.
Police officers detained the man nearby. His motives remain unclear, although a mental health component might be involved.
The suspect was arrested for attempted vehicle theft and booked into Benton County Jail. The police emphasized the importance of school safety and commended the bus driver, parent, and student for their calm actions during the incident.
